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This easy chicken burrito casserole pulls together everything you love about classic burritos in a comforting bake. The first time I made this, everyone hovered around the oven as the cheesy top bubbled and the kitchen filled with the smell of taco spices. This has become my go to dish when friends or family drop by for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
When I first served this at a busy weeknight dinner, everyone asked for seconds. It is now my reliable answer for busy weeks or those times when I want a hearty meal without much fuss.
Ingredients
- Cooked chicken shredded: Use rotisserie chicken for simplicity or poach your own for added flavor
- Black beans canned: Drained and rinsed for creamy texture and plant protein
- Corn canned: Adds a touch of sweet crunch frozen corn also works
- Diced tomatoes with green chilies: Adds tang and gentle heat opt for fire roasted if you like deeper flavor
- Cooked rice: White or brown Cooked leftover rice is perfect
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully and brings sharp flavor
- Shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Offers a creamy finish
- Taco seasoning: Choose a quality packet or make your own for fresher spices
- Salsa: Adds zing try medium heat for most families
- Sour cream: Adds creaminess and helps everything blend
- Olive oil: To grease the pan and build richness
- Chopped fresh cilantro: Optional for garnish Use only bright green leaves
- Tortilla chips or flour tortillas: Optional for serving Try toasting your chips for extra crunch
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Grease a nine by thirteen inch baking dish evenly with olive oil making sure you reach into all the corners You do not want the casserole to stick or miss out on any of the golden edges
- Mix the Main Ingredients:
- In a big bowl add the shredded chicken drained beans corn diced tomatoes with chilies cooked rice taco seasoning salsa and half each of the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses Use clean hands or a sturdy spoon to toss and blend until every bite is flecked with cheese and sauce
- Fill the Baking Dish:
- Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish Use a spatula to spread it out to every corner so the top cooks evenly
- Top with Cheese:
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top This ensures that every square comes out with a gooey cheesy topping
- Cover and Bake:
- Cover the dish snugly with foil This step traps steam to keep everything moist Place in the oven on the middle rack for twenty five minutes
- Bake Until Golden:
- Remove the foil and continue baking for another ten to fifteen minutes Watch for the top to turn golden and for the cheese to bubble along the edges The casserole is done when everything is hot all the way through
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the casserole sit for a few minutes out of the oven This makes it easier to cut and helps the flavors meld Slice and serve warm with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a side of tortilla chips or warmed flour tortillas
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I love using Monterey Jack in this casserole because it creates those perfect stretchy cheesy pulls that always wow the table. There was one family game night where everyone raced for the corner piece with the crispiest cheese and we laughed for ages about who found the cheesiest bite.
Storage Tips
Once cooled, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days If you plan to freeze, cut the casserole into serving size squares and wrap each in foil before placing it in a freezer safe bag Thaw in the fridge then reheat in a low oven or microwave
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap cooked turkey for chicken or go vegetarian by doubling the beans and skipping the meat For less heat use mild salsa and regular diced tomatoes If cheddar or Monterey Jack are missing try mozzarella or pepper Jack for a spin
Serving Suggestions
Serve casserole slices atop crunchy lettuce for a lighter meal My favorite way is with extra salsa and a squeeze of fresh lime Tortilla chips on the side make everything more fun for kids
Easy Weeknight Favorite
This recipe comes from a long run of busy nights where I wanted full flavor with very little fuss I kept tweaking the spices and found that a packet of taco seasoning works as well as homemade The best tip do not skimp on the cheese because it makes the dish draw everyone back for seconds
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This is a meal everyone loves to share and it always disappears fast. Enjoy this cozy casserole with your favorite toppings or cozy sides.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly and adds even more flavor and saves prep time.
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve for best results.
- → Which type of rice works best?
Both white and brown cooked rice are great options. Use your family’s preferred variety for convenience.
- → Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, portion and freeze cooled casserole in airtight containers for up to three months. Reheat before serving.
- → What are tasty topping ideas?
Garnish with extra fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, avocado, or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor.